NEWMARKET— One Sky Futures' School Transition Services invites the public to visit its Learning Center in Newmarket on Wednesday, Oct. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Since May, high school students have been busy learning life skills at the multipurpose space at 60 Exeter Road. One Sky Futures is a subsidiary of One Sky Community Services, which provides services for people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders in 24 Rockingham County cities and towns. Its School Transition Services extend beyond Rockingham County to other New Hampshire counties, the North Shore of Massachusetts and Southern Maine.

"We're excited and proud of our first program space in the community," says One Sky Executive Director Bob James. One Sky has provided service coordination and family support services at its Portsmouth offices for nearly 30 years. Direct programming began to be offered five years ago. "One Sky Futures' has been expanding rapidly," says James, "and we're more than ready for the space. "

School Transition Services provide students with independent living and vocational skills, ongoing education and training, community participation and communication skills. "We're hoping to see many special education directors and case managers at the open house," says Program Manager MHC MacLeod.

Visitors will see the students' kitchen, laundry and computer facilities, and recreational spaces indoors and out. They'll be treated to refreshments donated by The Olive Garden while learning about curricula such as "flameless/knifeless cookery," cleaning/domestic skills; money management; music with TJ Wheeler, iPad 'Gabfest', school-to-work internships, yoga, exercise, dance and relaxation classes.

The Learning Center takes advantage of its proximity to the University of New Hampshire's Durham campus, to employ UNH volunteers and expose its students to campus programs. They're also close to job opportunities, since Newmarket's downtown area has been undergoing renewal and expansion. Situated next door to the town's acclaimed Community Recreation Center, and a short walk to the public library and scenic Schanda Park, Learning Center students are well placed to fully participate in the greater Seacoast community.